Let's Play Ball!!!

Katie Skinner played in her 1st T-Ball game on April 3, 2004.  Katie plays on the Sam Rayburn Team #2.  Katie is the daughter of Jean & Jason Skinner of Ivanhoe, TX.  Her team won their first game;  the score was 6 to 4.  Katie is really excited about her up coming games.

Colton Hardy was a perfect, healthy baby. But his mother, Debra Hardy, delivered him stillborn on January 18, 2004 – five months before his May 23, 2004 due date. If it were not for the placenta previa that caused Colton premature birth, he would still be inside Debra’s womb, growing strong and healthy.

When she was 16 weeks pregnant, Debra discovered she had placenta previa, where the placenta attaches to the uterus too low and blocks the birth canal. She was ordered to take strict bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy, at least until Colton would be safe to deliver. Four weeks later, major hemorrhaging sent Debra to the hospital for an eight day stay. She returned home again with the plan to stay in bed and keep Colton inside. One morning she woke up sick and feverish, and everything went downhill from there, she said. At 22 weeks, Debra went into labor, three to four weeks too early for modern medicine to save Colton’s life. There is no cure, nor prevention, for placenta previa.

When the March of Dimes WalkAmerica campaign kicked off in March, Debra’s experience was still fresh in the hearts of her colleagues at Stephenson School in Bonham ISD. They made Debra and her husband Brian their Ambassador Family – every penny raised and every step taken to make the March of Dimes campaign against prematurity a success is in the memory of Colton.

"There are so many premature babies out there," Debra says, "but you don’t realize that until it affects you personally." For her, March of Dimes research into the causes and possible preventions of premature births is vital.

Jodi Hunt is the campaign team captain at Stephenson School. "In the last 30 years, March of Dimes has made tremendous strides, like with polio, but I never would have known it if I wasn’t involved. Their track record speaks for itself."

Starting in 1938, March of Dimes spent 17 years developing a vaccine against polio. Their efforts to immunize children at an early age have eradicated polio from the western hemisphere; only 480 cases were reported throughout the world in 2001 and next year, the World Health Organization expects that to drop to zero.

March of Dimes is now in year two of a five year massive campaign to raise awareness and funds for research on prematurity. This fight against low birth weights, early births and birth defects dates back to 1958, yet even now one out of every eight babies is born too soon. March of Dimes will pursue the causes of prematurity with the same vigor which helped wipe polio from the world.

Debra’s appreciation for Stephenson School and all of the support across Fannin County goes beyond words. "It’s nice knowing they are doing this and raising money to help others survive, even though my baby didn’t," she said. The Hardys have come forward with their own story to let everyone know why March of Dimes WalkAmerica is so important.

Fannin County WalkAmerica 2004 will be held Saturday April 24 at Ft. Inglish Park in Bonham.

Team Captains will have their next meeting on Wednesday April 7, 2004 at the TDCJ – Buster Cole Unit in Bonham from 11:45 am to 1:00 pm. Additional materials and details will be supplied for the Walk and fundraising efforts.

It’s never too late to join the March of Dimes fight against the effects of premature births, like Colton’s. To sign up for WalkAmerica, go to www.marchofdimes.com or www.modnt.org

Monthly Fact Sheet Bonham Fire Department

March 2004

The following are the highlights of services provide by the Bonham Fire Department for the month of March 2004. Complete statistical data are available upon request.

• The Department answered a total of 310 calls in the 31-day period. This is 10 calls per day or one call every 2.4 hours. We responded to 267 requests for Emergency Medical Services and 43 Fire & Rescue calls.

• The Department conducted 32 Pre- fire Plan/ Business Inspections during the month and referred 15 of these to the Fire Marshal for follow-up corrective action.

• The Department is hosting a State Certified Fire Academy for four of our employees and 6 students from Haz-Co Fire Academy. This first-ever joint venture will reduce overall costs and increase training levels for the department.

• The fire department, in affiliation with Ken King of the Texas A&M University System, Texas Engineering Extension Service, Emergency Services Training Institute, The National Fire Academy, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, conducted a three day, 16 hour training class for members of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Institutional Division on the Incident Command System. Thirty-one students from 14 different correctional facilities from across the state attended the training conducted at the Choice Moore Unit here in Bonham. The students learned this highly valuable incident management tool for dealing with all types of emergency situations. Chief Mike Baker and Captain Brad Nichols were the lead instructors for the class. The City of Bonham and the fire department are proud to present this service to our community partners at the local correctional facilities. Thanks to Wardens Karl and Vandagriff and their risk management staffs for the opportunity to train together.

• The following members celebrated anniversary dates with the department in the previous month: Brandon Russell and Eric Williams, 2 Years of Service.

• There were 3 structures fires in the City during the month of March. A faulty gas heater at the Ranch motel caused minor damage to an exterior wall. The motel remained in operation and no one was displaced by the fire. A cooking fire was reported in South Bonham with no damage to the structure reported. A condemned house on South 5th Street was intentionally set on fire and a total loss. The fire was investigated by Bonham Fire Marshal Bruce Caylor and Bonham Police Detective Terry Bee. The individual setting the fire was arrested the same night & charged with arson. He subsequently pled guilty to those charges in District Court. Total reportable fire loss for the month was $3,000.00.

• The department responded to five rescue calls during the month including the year’s first water rescue. Nine grass fires were fought, seven inside the City Limits.

• The volunteer members of the department have paid for the construction of a new fire training building located at the department’s training field. The concrete slab, cinder block and steel structure should be completed and ready for use at the annual training school in May. Thanks to all of the volunteer members for their support and all of the members of the department for their hard work during construction. Future projects are in the works and the members of the department will be having more fund raisers for the effort.

Hometown Military News

April 02, 2004 (FHTNC)--Marine Corps Pvt. David R. Sandvick, son of Hope F. Tucker of Wolfe City, Texas and Daniel P. Sandvick of Lancaster, Wis., recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.

Sandvick and fellow recruits began their training at 5 a. m., by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, Sandvick spent numerous hours in classroom and field assignments which included learning first aid, uniform regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and assorted weapons training. They performed close order drill and operated as a small infantry unit during field training.

Sandvick and other recruits also received instruction on the Marine Corps’ core values--honor, courage and commitment, and what the words mean in guiding personal and professional conduct. Sandvick and fellow recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour, team evolution culminating in an emotional ceremony in which recruits are presented the Marine Corps Emblem, and addressed as "Marines" for the first time in their careers.

Asthma

What happens to you when your asthma is not under control? A whistling sound that you make when you breathe. A tight grip around your chest. Most patients with asthma have one or more of these classic symptoms. Do you know what asthma triggers are? They are things in the environment that can provoke asthma symptoms. The airways of a person with asthma are very sensitive and are more likely to narrow after exposure to triggers. Here are some triggers to watch for: smoking, dust mites, pets, cockroaches, indoor and outdoor mold, strong odors and sprays, pollen, certain foods, and/or weather.

The pulmonary education clinic is here to help you manage your asthma. Please contact your doctor to get a referral. We are ready to help you.

Pulmonary Education Clinic/ Northeast Medical Center

1211 E. 6th St.

Bonham, Texas 75418

(903) 640-7521 or (903) 640-7358

Recognizing Signs Of Child Abuse

Child abuse and neglect affects the lives of nearly 50,000 Texas children each year. In Fannin County there were 361 alleged victims of child abuse last year.

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, do believe the child and don’t walk away. Don’t try to investigate. Do report reasonable suspicions by calling the 24-hour Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400. In an emergency situation, call 911 for your local law enforcement agency.

There are four major types of child maltreatment: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and neglect. Physical abuse is physical injury as a result of punching, beating, shaking, kicking, biting, throwing, stabbing, hitting, choking or otherwise harming a child. An injury of this type is considered abuse regardless of whether the caregiver intended to hurt the child. Suspect physical abuse when you see:

• Frequent injuries such as bruises, cuts, black eyes or burns without adequate explanations

• Frequent complaints of pains without obvious injury

• Burns or bruises in unusual patterns that may indicate the use of an instrument or human bite; cigarette burns on any part of the body

• Lack of reaction to pain

• Aggressive, disruptive and destructive behavior

• Passive, withdrawn and emotionless behavior

• Fear of going home or seeing parents; injuries that appear after a child has not been seen for several days

• Unreasonable clothing that may hide injuries to arms or legs

Suspect sexual abuse when you see:

• Physical signs of sexually transmitted disease

• Evidence of injury to the genital area

• Pregnancy in a young girl

• Difficulty in sitting or walking

• Frequent expression of sexual activity between adult and child

• Extreme fear of being alone with adults of a certain sex

• Sexually suggestive, inappropriate or promiscuous behavior

• Knowledge of sexual relations beyond what is expected for a child’s age

• Sexual victimization of other children

Emotional abuse is mental or emotional injury that results in an observable and material impairment in a child’s growth, development or psychological functioning. It includes extreme forms of punishment such as confining a child in a dark closet, habitual scapegoating, belittling and rejecting treatment for a child. Suspect emotional abuse when you see:

• Over compliance

• Low self esteem

• Severe depression, anxiety or aggression

• Difficulty making friends or doing things with other children

• Lagging in physical, emotional and intellectual development

• Caregiver who belittles child, withholds love and seems unconcerned about child’s problems.

Neglect is failure to provide for a child’s basic needs. Suspect neglect when you see:

• Obvious malnourishment

• Lack of personal cleanliness

• Torn or dirty clothing

• Stealing or begging for food

• Child left unattended for long periods of time

• Need for glasses, dental care of other medical attention

• Frequent tardiness or absence from school

For more information about preventing and protecting children from abuse, visit www.itsuptoyou.org. To become a foster or adoptive parent, call 1-800-233-3405 or visit www.tdprs.state.tx.us. To become involved in breaking the cycle of abuse in Fannin County, contact the Fannin County Children’s Center at (903) 583-4339 or visit www.fanninccc.org. To report suspicions of abuse, call 1-800-252-5400 or local law enforcement.

Start your "Merry ‘Ole Month of May in a Merry Way" by hearing Emilie Aronson performing live at a Harmony House Concert on Saturday, May 1, 2004, from 7:30-9:30 pm. May Day has long been celebrated as a festive and light-hearted event by many cultures---a sign that summer has arrived with all its glory! All kinds of images may pop into your head as you remember May Day traditions, such as taking a basket of posies to a friend or shut-in or dancing around a Maypole when you were in kindergarten. Emilie will bring just that kind of frivolity, fun, and thoughtfulness to her performance. Behind her impish face and twinkling eyes is a masterful singer-songwriter-acoustic guitarist. Steve Fromholz says of Emilie, "She’s the greatest living female punster." Her voice has been called "clarion clear" as she reveals her musical wares. Some songs are dead honest, some whimsical, some tongue-in-cheek, but all are written from her unique perspective. Her music is an enjoyable acoustic smorgasbord, drawing from musical influences as diverse as folk, bluegrass, rhythm and blues, and rock.

Emilie was a New Folk Winner and a longtime Kerrville Folk Festival performer. Her energetic, eclectic shows have delighted audiences at festivals, clubs, colleges and on radio and television all over the southwest and midwest. She opened concerts for nationally known performers including: The Kingston Trio, Odetta, Mickey Newberry, Lyle Lovett, Nanci Griffith, Ray Wylie Hubbard, John Vandiver, and Shake Russell.

Using a bit of Emilie’s humorous style and song titles, Harmony House hosts, Faye Wedell & Scott Lipsett urge you not to be a "Couch Potato" and "Come on to Our House", where you will enjoy the "Wilderness" of Wildscape Acres and "Open Your Eyes"(and ears) to the magic of music and maybe even "Go Dancin’ with the Moon". You will be greeted warmly and sent home with good wishes "Till We Meet Again", and the next morning you will definitely know that it wasn’t "Only a Dream".

A donation of $10 per person is requested with all proceeds going to the artist. A bottomless cup of coffee or tea and dessert is available for an additional $1 per person. Please make reservations by calling 903/583-2661. Wildscape Acres is located 10 miles North of Bonham and about 65 miles North of Dallas. Ask for directions when making reservations.

As an appetizer for the evening, a Potluck Picnic will begin at 6:15 pm for those interested; state intent when making reservations. As an after-concert treat, bring your own guitar, banjo, washtub bass, washboard, voices, ears, and we’ll go down to the campfire and have a little jammin’. Those guests who wish to camp overnight may bring tents and we’ll start the day with O-J; cafe; and sunnyside-ups.

The Alamo

Kay Bailey Hutchinson

This weekend the excitement and glamour of Hol­lywood shone on San Antonio as the yellow carpet was rolled out for the world premiere of Disney’s newest film,

The Alamo. Yes, the Movie premiered with a 1,500 foot yellow carpet, instead of the traditional red one, paying homage to the famed yellow rose of Texas. Actor Dennis Quaid, touched by the outpouring of people who lined the streets to welcome the Hollywood visitors said, "This is like the Beatles came to town." I was privileged to join in the festivities and pay tribute to the storied stone edifice that so defines the fight for freedom waged by Texas in 1835-36.

This isn’t the first movie made about the Alamo, but it is the grandest. With a budget of more than $100 million, six months of shooting, Hollywood stars like Mr. Quaid and Billy Bob Thornton, and a movie set believed to be one of the largest ever built, the film goes to great visual, cinematic and theatrical lengths to recall the mystique of’ the legendary battle.

The fact that, after nearly two hundred years, this story is still being retold is testament to the significance of our state’s heritage. We Texans know the importance the Alamo played in shaping that history. From our earli­est years we are taught the legacy of bravery, heroism and sacrifice that is held within the hallowed walls of the old mission. In fact, Texas history is a requirement for all 7th grade students in our public schools. Our children grow up learning the tales of their ancestors and understanding the challenges and sacrifices they overcame to pave the way for the Lone Star state we know and love today.

For me as a youngster, Texas history was something personal since my family helped to form it. My great great--grandfather, Charles S. Taylor, signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, for which the battle at the Alamo paved the way. I hope to pass on that love of his­tory to my children and keep the stories of our past alive for generations to come.

Though historians are always wary of any attempt to breathe life back into ancient stories, and Texans don’t like the idea of anyone messing with our history, Disney’s take on the saga is engrossing, adding color, flair and personality for entertainment value as seen in the official plot synopsis:

"Where myth meets history ... where legend meets reality- the roads cross at San Antonio de Bexar and the small, ruined mission there: The Alamo. In the spring of 1836, nearly 200 Texans - men of all races who believed in the future of Texas - held the fort for 13 days under siege by General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, ruler of Mexico and commander of its forces. Led by three men - the young, brash Col. William Travis; the violent, pas­sionate James Bowie; and the larger-than-life legend David Crockett - the Texans and their deeds at the Alamo would pass into history as General Sam Houston’s rallying cry for Texas independence and into legend for their symbolic significance."

To many, the character of Davy Crocket will forever be recalled with the image of John Wayne complete with a raccoon skin cap and a rifle slung over his shoulder in the 1960 version of The Alamo. But perhaps the 2004 ver­sion of the film with all of its special effects and modern technology will bring this tale to a new generation. In my unprofessional opinion, it is an absorbing movie ... very interesting. It is my hope that all Americans who see this film will appreciate the deep history that inspired it and be encouraged to preserve and pass down their own stories.

VA Seeks Former POWs

DALLAS - VA North Texas Health Care System has a special message for a special group of veterans - America’s former prisoners of war. "We’re telling former POWs to check their VA benefits eligibility now and make sure they’re receiving the benefits they’ve earned," said Alan Harper, VANTHCS director. "Former POWs are eligible for special compensation and health care benefits many may not know about."

Approximately 1,423 former POWs in Texas already receive compensation from VA. This year, VA mailed information about benefits to 4,700 known ex-POWs across the country not on its rolls. However, VA estimates there could be as many as 11,000 more POWs for whom it does not have an address.

VA has expanded policies to cover increasing numbers of former POWs as new illnesses have been found related to wartime captivity. Even former POWs already receiving compensation from VA may be eligible for additional benefits. VA is particularly concerned about World War II and Korean War former POWs now in their eighties.

Nine of ten former POWs are veterans of World War II whose service predates the use of Social Security numbers as a military identification number. That, coupled with the decades since their service, makes it difficult for VA to track down those who have not opened a file with VA in recent years.

The most recent expansion of VA benefits for former POWs was the addition of cirrhosis of the liver to the list of diseases to which entitlement to disability compensation is presumed for former POWs. Similar policies making it easier for former POWs to obtain compensation have been enacted for POWs who develop other specific illnesses. While most of these diseases have a 30-day minimum captivity requirement, Congress has eliminated the requirement for cold injury, traumatic arthritis and certain mental illnesses.

Former POWs have special eligibility for enrollment in VA medical care and are exempt from making co-payments for inpatient and outpatient services. They are also exempt from co­payments for medications. Free VA dental treatment is also available to former POWs. More information about VA services for former POWs is available at www_vba.va_gov/bIn/21/Ben efits/POW/ or call 1-800-827-1000. Don Stevenson, POW coordinator at VANTHCS may be reached at 214 857-0940­

"We are spreading the word to let former POWs know VA benefits and services available for them may be just a phone call away," Harper said.

BONHAM - Members of the Bonham Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had the opportunity this weekend to view the Church’s 174th Semiannual Conference locally via satellite, cable TV, or the Internet. Five sessions were broadcast live from Salt Lake City, which features speakers chosen from the leadership of the Church including the Quorum of the Twelve, General Authority Seventy, and the First Presidency. The broadcast reaches over 95 percent of the church’ membership.

In Saturday morning’s session, the statistical report for the Church was presented to the membership. It stated: "The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has issued the following report concerning the growth and status of the Church as of 31 December 2003:

CHURCH UNITS: Stakes 2,624; Missions 337; Districts 644; Wards and Branches 26,237

CHURCH MEMBERSHIP: Total membership 11,985,254; Increase in children of record during 2003: 99,457; Converts baptized during 2003: 242,923

MISSIONARIES: Full-time Missionaries 56,237

TEMPLES: Temples dedicated during 2003: 2 (Brisbane Australia, Redlands California) Temples in operation at the end of 2003: 116"

"The church’s membership is reaching 12 million," said Church President Gordon B. Hinckley in his opening remarks of Saturday, "with 5.2 million in the United States alone. It is the nation’s fifth-largest Christian denomination, according to th, National Council of Churches.

"We are now a great international family, living in many nations and speaking many languages," said Hinckley, whose word were translated into 66 languages - eight more than last year.

Church leaders spoke on topics including the importance of families; giving service to each other and our communities being prepared, both spiritually and temporally; and the importance of the atonement of the Savior, Jesus Christ.

"All the wonderful talks are available to listen to currently and the written text will be available on Thursday, April 8 a www.lds.org," stated Bonham Ward Public Affairs Director, Myrna St.George. "Our next conference will be the firs weekend of October."

Public Service Announcement

THE RED HAT REPUBLICAN LADIES of Fannin County collected can goods and gift certificates to fill Easter Baskets for six needy families at their April, Continental Breakfast meeting. The Easter gift baskets were presented to the Fannin County Crisis Center. Accepting the baskets for the Crisis Center was Richard Glaser, Chairman of the Board as well as Debbie Freeman and Becky Williams.

Our thanks to David and Betsy Galvin for their donation to provide the gift certificates for the families to purchase hams for the baskets.

State Representative Larry Phillips and 336th Judge candidate Lauri Blake enjoyed the breakfast treats and talked with the large group of ladies.

Red River Line Dancers Came To Seven Oaks

It was one of their best performances. The Residents enjoyed it, they were tapping toes, snapping fingers, and clapping hands. It was standing room only. It was a very exciting day for everyone. Even the employees took a few minutes to join in on the dancing.

Seven Oaks was Rocking -N- Rolling right along with the Line Dancers.

We would like to Thank the Red River Line Dancers for coming to Seven Oaks, we hope they will continue to keep coming. They have always put on a good performance for us. The Residents always look forward to seeing them over and over again.

We would like to take this time to thank each and everyone of the line dancers, especially Dance Coordinator, Hazel Simmons and all of her Red River Line Dancers.

Thanks again for the Rocking -N- Rolling Day.

Doris Matlock, Activity Director

"At Home In Mitford" Presented At The Woodmoore

By Jean Pope Norman

Jean Pope Norman is a known book reviewer and graduate of Bonham High School. Jean is married and lives in the small community of Howe, Texas. She will entertain the audience with delightful story telling and singing. Coming home gives Jean a chance to see her mother, Kathryn Pope and visit with friends. What a perfect book to be reviewing!

"AT HOME IN MITFORD" By Jan Karon is the first novel in the beloved Mitford series. Midford is a lot like Bonham. It’s easy to feel at home here. Green hills, air is pure, the town is charming, and the people are generally lovable. Readers get a rich comedy about ordinary people and their ordinary lives.

Join us for an enjoyable afternoon at The Woodmoore April, 20, 2004 at 3:00 pm. Coffee and cookies will be served.

Partners Join Local American Red Cross To Promote Preparedness

DENISON, TX (April 4, 2004)—The Texoma Chapter of the American Red Cross, in partnership with Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse, is urging local residents to Pledge to Prepare for disasters and to assist the local Red Cross in preparation for disasters.

For the first time, Lowe’s, Kidde, the American Red Cross, Home Safety Council and Nick Jr. Family Magazine have teamed up with a call to action for all Americans to pledge to improve home safety. This new public service campaign, called Pledge to Prepare, will help educate families about specific actions they can take to be ready for fires and other home emergencies. In 2004, campaign efforts will focus on communicating the importance of fire safety.

"This is a prestigious partnership for the Texoma area," Sharon Watson, executive director of the local Red Cross said. "Preparedness is a major component in disaster response and recovery, should a disaster occur."

In addition to the public service campaign, throughout the month of April, Lowe’s is offering matching funds for donations made through its store at the check out counter or on-line. During the month of April, customers can make a gift to their local American Red Cross chapter at the Lowe’s store’s cash register or online at pledgetoprepare.com. Funds raised through this effort will support the lifesaving programs and services of the American Red Cross in communities across the country. Lowe’s and Kidde—a leading global supplier of fire safety products—will match up to $100,000 of the customer donations for the American National Red Cross.

Funds donated by persons in the three-county zip code area served by the Texoma Red Cross will go to the local chapter.

"Pledge to Prepare has brought together a dream team of organizations committed to educating families about home safety," said Larry Stone, chairman of the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation. "For the first time in our company’s history, Lowe’s is joining forces with four other prominent organizations—Kidde, American Red Cross, Home Safety Council and Nick Jr. Family Magazine—to take a joint stance on the importance and seriousness of home safety preparation."

Residents can also Pledge to Prepare by attending Red Cross disaster preparedness classes which are being scheduled through church and civic groups. Basic elements in the Pledge to Prepare are:

1. Develop a fire safety escape plan

2. Test smoke alarms monthly

3. Build a disaster supplies kit

4. Attend a safety class

5. Share safety knowledge

The local Red Cross also has printed material on preparedness. For information on how your family or business can prepare for disasters or to schedule a preparedness workshop for your group, contact the local Red Cross at 903.465.1330 or 940.665.4365.

Eight volunteers and staff from Child Protective Services and Fannin County Children’s Center represented the Fannin County Rainbow Rooms by attending the Greater Texas Community Partners conference in Ft. Worth last weekend. They attended a luncheon honoring First Lady Laura Bush and went to workshops to learn ideas to improve and expand services for abused and neglected children.

Stephenson School Schedule Of Events

April 17 - Trip to Caldwell Zoo in Tyler

April 19-25 - TV-Turnoff Week

April 19-23 - National Volunteer Week

April 20 - Volunteer Recognitions Day

April 22 - Parent Meeting 6:30 pm

Fannin County Head Start

Pre-registration will be held on April 27-29, 9:00 am-2:00 pm for children who will be 3 or 4 years old on or before September 1, 2004. Families must bring proof of income, a certified Birth Certificate, Social Security card, immunization records, TANF, SSI, and Proof of Medicaid. Services for children with special needs are available.

Coming Events

May 7 - Mother’s Day Tea - 1:00 pm

May 17-20 - Parent Conferences

May 25 and 26 - Graduation

Congressman Ralph Hall Announces Roll-Out Of The Medicare Prescription Drug Card

WASHINGTON, DC.. . The voluntary drug discount card program for Medicare recipients that will go into effect on June 1, 2004, "is expected to save beneficiaries an average of 10 to 25 percent off the retail price of most drugs," stated Rep. Ralph Hall (R­-TX) in announcing the roll-out of the program. Congress passed the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act and the President signed it into law last year.

"The voluntary drug discount card will be available to all Medicare beneficiaries, except those who have Medicaid drug coverage," Hall said. Beneficiaries can enroll at any time prior to January 1, 2006, and the enrollment fee cannot exceed $30 per year. They will have a choice of at least two Medicare-endorsed cards, and can select the one best suited to them. Card sponsors can be Pharmacy Benefit Managers, wholesalers, retail pharmacies, insurers, or MedicareChoice plans; all endorsed cards must include an extensive national or regional network of retail pharmacies.

"In order to better help seniors and people with disabilities get the best discount possible, Medicare will provide price comparisons between card programs beginning on April 29, 2004," Hall noted. Beneficiaries can access the information online at www.medicare.gov, or they can call 1-800-Medicare. Medicare recipients will also receive in the mail a resource publication listing all Medicare-endorsed drug discount cards, their sponsors, and their benefits. Beneficiaries can begin to sign up for their drug cards on May 3.

The drug discount card program also includes substantial benefits for low-income seniors. Beneficiaries with incomes below $12,123 for individuals and $16,362 for couples will get a Federal subsidy of up to $600 per year to purchase their prescription drugs. The government will also pay the full enrollment fee for these cardholders. "The subsidy, in conjunction with the drug discount card, will give these vulnerable citizens immediate help affording life-giving drugs," Hall said. "While the drug discount card program is a step in the right direction, we need to focus this year on additional ways to bring down the cost of prescription drugs," Hall added. "Congress needs to find creative solutions to the problem of increasing drug costs without jeopardizing the world-class research and development that is the hallmark of American pharmaceutical companies. It is still unacceptable for companies to charge our domestic dispensers three or four times what they charge Mexico and Canada."

"We will monitor the volunteer drug discount program to ensure that it meets the goals we are trying to achieve--more affordable prescription drugs for our nation’s senior citizens and persons with disabilities," Hall explained.

Kathrine Jarrell-Shaul Graduated From A&M-Commerce

Kathrine (Katie) Jarrell- Shaul graduated from Texas A&M- Commerce during the fall Commencement Ceremony held December 13, 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies-Elementary Education degree.

She is employed with the Farmersville ISD as a kindergarten teacher. A 1999 graduate of Bonham High School, Katie is the daughter of Thomas and Cindy Jarrell of Bonham. Grandparents are Kenneth and Rachel Templeton of Bonham and Juanita Jarrell of the Lannius Community. She is married to Josh Shaul and resides in McKinney, Texas

Bonham SNAP Center Menu

BBQ Wieners, Hot Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Bread, Plum Cobbler, Milk

Chicken Fried Steak/ Gravy, Texas Potatoes, Green Beans, Bread, Pears, Milk

Ranch Mix, Mexicali Corn, Tossed Salad/ Dressing, Toast, Lime Jello W/ Pineapple, Milk

Roast Beef/ Gravy, Whipped Potatoes, Peas & Carrots, Bread, Peaches, Cookies Milk

Oven Fried Chicken, Corn, Beets/ Orange Sauce, Bread, Pneapple Upside Down Cake, Milk

On March 26 & 27 the Bois d’ Arc Vet Science Club went to College Station for Open House Weekend at the College of Veterinary Medicine. The group toured the school and participated in many activities. The girls are in their 2nd & 3rd year of a 4 year program.

Seated left to right Alicia Wilbanks, Brandi Alexander, & Amber Wilbanks.

Kiamichi Technology Center Now Accepting Applications For LPN Program

Durant- Kiamichi Technology Center, Durant Campus is now accepting applications for the full-time and half-time Licensed Practical Nurse Programs (LPN). Individuals interested in applying for the 2004-2005 class may pick up an application in the main office located at 810 Waldron Road, Durant, Oklahoma. All applications must be returned to the school no later than April 22, 2004 to be considered for the upcoming class. A testing date will be given when application is returned. Classes will begin in July, 2004. Please call 924-7081 ext. 235 if you have additional questions regarding these programs.

Star Family Connection

Does this sound familiar? "I hate school! I’m not going!", "I’ll clean my room later!", "You hate all my friends! They’re my friends, not yours!", "I don’t care what you say, you can’t make me!"

Just about all parents have heard something along these lines, but if you’re concerned that your child’s behavior is getting out of hand, perhaps we can help.

We are the STAR Family Connection program offered by Grayson County Juvenile Alternatives through a grant from Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. We provide free services in 10 counties including Fannin county for youth under 18 years of age and for their families.

Youth who are having trouble in the areas of trauncy, misdemeanor behavior, family conflict, and running away benefit from our program. In addition, we offer assistance to families who are or have experienced child maltreatment of some kind. The program offers FREE counseling and groups for the whole family, as well as, educational material and referrals.

Can we help your family? Chances are, yes. Three months after a family closes their case with us, we contact them again to see how they are doing. Last year out of the 1,141 families we served, over 87% said that their situation was better or that our services helped.

What do you do to receive our services? Call. We will set you up with an appointment and you will enter the program. Remember that our services are FREE. Just call us at 1-800-568-7776. Wouldn’t it be nice to hear, "I’ve already cleaned my room!"

TDH Urges Use of Repellent to Protect Against West Nile Virus

And with the mosquitoes West Nile virus once again will be circulating in the state, according to the Texas Department of Health (TDH). One of the first lines of defense against getting the illness, health officials say, is using repellent containing DEET.

"DEET is an effective repellent that lasts much longer than other repellents," said Joe Garrett, a veterinarian with zoonosis control at TDH. "It’s safe for children if used according to directions."

According to TDH, 77 percent of the people who got the more serious forms of West Nile infection in 2003 did not use repellent.

Anyone can become infected with West Nile virus, but people over 50 are at greatest risk.

"Older people, especially those who have medical problems, are more likely to develop the more serious forms of the illness including encephalitis and meningitis," Garrett said. "Many of the fatal cases in Texas occurred in the elderly population."

While not every mosquito carries the virus, avoiding any mosquito bite is key to preventing West Nile illness. Health officials advise wearing long sleeves and long pants and using insect repellent with DEET. Avoid going out from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active, and drain standing water from around your home so mosquitoes cannot hatch.

Symptoms of West Nile illness appear from three to 14 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito.

West Nile virus infections usually are mild with flu-like symptoms including fever, headache, sore throat, body aches and fatigue. Symptoms of more severe West Nile infections are headache, high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, coma and paralysis. If you have these symptoms, contact your health care provider right away.

"In 2003, we had a lot more human cases of West Nile illness than we had in 2002," Garrett said. "The increase was probably not due to any change in the disease itself, but because the disease had finally covered the entire state. There were more people exposed to the virus and therefore, more people infected with it."

So far this year, West Nile virus has been detected in three horses in Fort Bend, La Salle and Montgomery counties and in five birds in Harris County.

In 2003 TDH recorded 434 human cases of West Nile in 86 Texas counties, including 36 deaths. In comparison in 2002, the state listed less than half that many cases - 202 - in 37 counties with 13 deaths.

The 36 deaths last year were in residents of Angelina, Burnet, Cameron, Castro, Cherokee, Crosby, Dallas (4), Denton, Ellis, El Paso (3), Hale, Harris (3), Hidalgo (2), Floyd, Lubbock (2), Montgomery, Parmer, Potter, Randall (2), San Patricio, Smith, Taylor, Travis, Wharton and Wichita (2) counties.

West Nile virus has spread steadily westward across the United States since 1999 when New York first reported 62 human cases. Human cases of West Nile illness have now been reported in all states except Oregon and Washington. Crows, jays, sparrows and cardinals are among the birds most likely to carry the West Nile virus. The disease is transmitted when a mosquito bites a bird that is carrying the virus and later bites a human, horse or other animal.

This year, state health officials are working to improve tracking West Nile virus. One technique is to test birds in the field, a method that provides results in 15 minutes rather than waiting several days for laboratory findings. With this method, communities can respond quicker.

For more information on West Nile virus, visit the TDH Web site at www.tdh.state.tx.us.

Ladonia Man Receives 30 Year Sentence For

Raymond Lee Scott, age 28, of Ladonia was sentenced to 30 years in prison for Aggravated Robbery on Friday, April 2, 2004. Judge Ray Grisham of the 336^th Judicial District Court of Fannin County sentenced Scott for his part in the January 15, 2004, armed robbery of a ninety-two year old Ladonia man. Scott and his family sobbed openly as the Judge read the sentence. County Attorney Myles Porter represented the State of Texas and the people of Fannin County in the case.

On January 15, 2004, during the afternoon hours, the 92 year old Ladonia man was sitting in his recliner watching television when Scott and his 23 year old accomplice entered through an unlocked door. The robbers, armed with a handgun, pulled the victim out of his chair and onto the floor. After searching the man’s pockets, one of the robbers went through the house while his partner continued to sit on the man’s back and hold his hands. Several hundred dollars in cash and jewelry were taken in the robbery. As the robbers left they told the victim to stay on the floor for ten minutes or they would kill him.

The victim sustained a bloody lip and numerous bruises to his hands and arms from struggling to free himself from the grip of his attackers. After the robbers left, the man was found by a neighbor and the police were called.

The case was investigated by Deputy Wayne Walker of the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office. District Attorney Porter praised the investigation of Deputy Walker, referring to the investigation as "excellent police work". When Walker arrived on the scene, all he had was a victim who could not identify his attackers. Walker combed the area and found neighbors who remembered seeing two black men near the victim’s house. One neighbor identified Scott as a possible suspect. After a three day search by Walker, he found Scott, who later confessed to his part in the robbery.

County Attorney Myles Porter explained that Scott will have to serve at least fifteen calendar years before he will even become eligible for parole. Porter said the victim was involved in the plea negotiations and that he was happy with the 30 year sentence. The County Attorney thanked Wayne Walker and the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office for their hard work and determination in solving this crime. Scott’s co-defendant faces trial next month for his part in the robbery.

Won The Lottery? Just Hang Up!

By Greg Abbott

Attorney General Of Texas

Do you occasionally get colorful and official-looking announcements in the mail saying that you have won a sweepstakes, a phony lottery or some kind of cash drawing that you don’t even remember signing up for? Throw it away. Ignore the phone calls, too.

Phony lotteries and sweepstakes are one of the most devastating frauds facing consumers today. Seniors in particular are targeted by unscrupulous crooks willing to say just about any thing to get their money. The OAG has launched a new public awareness campaign to reach more consumers who are in danger of falling prey to this kind of scam.

It’s called "Just Hang Up!" Many phony lottery scams begin with a phone call. That should be an immediate warning. If you had won a real lottery, not only would you have bought a ticket, it would also be up to you to present your winning ticket to claim your prize. The Texas Lottery does not call you up to tell you that you’ve won. JUST HANG UP!

It is illegal to buy or sell tickets for a foreign lottery across state lines or international boundaries. Of course, most of the time, when consumers are told they have won a fabulous prize, they have not actually bought a ticket. That is another sign of a phony lottery. If you didn’t buy a ticket, you couldn’t win a real lottery. Don’t even listen to them. JUST HANG UP!

The most dangerous sign that a lottery or sweepstakes is a fraud is when they ask you to send money before you can claim your prize. They say you will receive money, but the reality is, YOU are going to give THEM money. JUST HANG UP!

The real lottery doesn’t work that way. If you win, you get money. But with phony lotteries and sweepstakes, callers talk about all the money you are going to get, but also about fees, the cost of wire transfers and even taxes. When you win the lottery, you pay taxes. But you don’t pay the tax before you get your winnings. You pay it after. And it’s the IRS you’re dealing with, not the lottery.

Unfortunately, some people cannot help falling for a tall tale that they want so much to believe. In many of the sad cases we learn about, the victim needs the money for a family member or an ailing spouse. They end up losing whatever they had.

We hear about people who lose tens of thousands of dollars. But often, solicitations begin with relatively small sums. Victims may think, "Well, it’s only $20 and if it’s true I’ll have $20 million. What’s the harm in sending a little bit?" Once a consumer responds, the scam artists will become more aggressive and relentless. Some victims received pounds of junk mail about phony lotteries and sweepstakes and other scams every day in the mail.

In addition, their phones ring non-stop. These crooks will say anything and can be very persuasive. We have found, by recording actual calls, that they can also be intimidating and abusive. Many victims know better than to fall for these schemes, but get worn down or browbeaten into sending money just to try and get these people out of their lives. Don’t let it happen to you. Just hang up!

Information On The Texas Military Preparedness Commission

The 75th Texas Legislature directed the Texas Department of Economic Development to establish and maintain an Office of Defense Affairs. During that session, the Legislature also established the Texas Strategic Military Planning Commission (TSMPC).

Governor George W. Bush appointed nine citizens of Texas to serve as Commissioners and to act as an advisory group to the Office of Defense Affairs. This was the beginning of Texas taking a proactive role in assessing the value of our military resources.

During the 78th Legislature, Senate Bill 652 abolished the Office of Defense Affairs and the TSMPC and created the office of the Texas Military Preparedness Commission (TMPC). The new Commission, under the Governor’s Office, contains nine members appointed by Governor Perry, with appropriate staff. It’s mission is to develop a pro-active statewide strategy to assist defense-dependent communities in the prevention of future base closures and realignments and to assist defense dependent communities prepare for the next generation of military in Texas. The staff and Commissioners are committed to ensuring the state’s leadership role in defense-related issues.

With an estimated economic impact of $43.4 billion, the military has always been a driving force in Texas’ diverse economy. Texas also enjoys a rich military history, with historic active installations like Fort Sam Houston, Fort Bliss, Randolph Air Force Base, and Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. Because the military is such an important part of our heritage, Texans must continue to support the state efforts to expand the military presence and become more active in seeking lasting partnerships with our defense communities.

The mission of Office of the TMPC is to offer assistance to defense dependent communities and businesses. The Office is charged with two primary missions. The first is develop and administer an Annual Master Plan Report that assists the state’s defense communities prepare for future Base Realignments & Closures (BRAC) and secondly to assist defense communities that have already been impacted by BRAC. These affected communities are assisted through The Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant Program and the Texas Military Value Revolving Loan Fund.

Contact Information

Texas Military Preparedness Commission

Office of the Governor

P.O. Box 12428

Austin, Texas 78711

To contact Sen. Deuell about the legislative process, contact the Capitol Office at (512) 463-0556 or mail to Sen. Bob Deuell, Texas Senate, P.O. Box 12068, Austin, TX 78711. The website for the Texas Senate is www.Senate.state.tx.us. The e-mail address for Sen. Deuell is: bob.deuell@senate.state.tx.us.

Points To Remember Phony Lotteries & Sweepstakes

A real lottery does not call you to say you have won. In a real lottery, you have to buy a ticket to win. A real lottery prize is free -- no fees or taxes are paid to the lottery.

EACH YEAR, many senior Texans lose millions of dollars to scam artists who operate by phone. These criminals tell victims that they have won a multi-million dollar lottery or sweepstakes prize. They then ask consumers to wire thousands of dollars in up front "taxes" and handling fees before the prize can be sent. The prize never arrives. The money is lost forever. Some seniors have lost their life savings this way. Don’t be next. Just hang up.

Information on this and other topics is available on the Attorney General’s Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us.

Red River Theatre Company Performance

Following the matinee and final performance on Sunday, May 2nd of the Red River Theatre Company’s production of Dan Goggin’s musical comedy, Nunsense, patrons who have made a $5 donation to RRTC will have an opportunity to win one of several vintage collector nun dolls. Performances are scheduled for Friday, April 30th at 7PM, Saturday, May 1st at 7PM, and Sunday, May 2nd at 2:00 PM at the V.A. auditorium in Bonham. Of varying sizes, some of the nun dolls date back to the 1960s and feature a full traditional nun’s habit including tiny rosaries.

Dan Goggin’s wrote the nuns’ story based on his personal experiences with the nuns of the Order of the Little Sisters of Hoboken, NJ in his youth. Each of the characters reflects the personality of the real life nuns at the Catholic school which he attended in that city.

Sometimes rowdy and always decidedly "nun-conventional", the nun characters interact closely with the audience in dialogue, dance and song to provide entertainment at its highest level in theatrical stage productions.

Local actresses performing under the direction of RRTC’s first youth director, James Nathan Igo of Bonham are Jamie Smith as Sister Mary Leo, Rachel Barnes as Sister Robert Anne, Karena Ellis as Sister Mary Hubert, Lisa Avila as Sister Amnesia, and Donna West as Sister Mary Regina, the Mother Superior. References to famous public figures are easily recognizable, such as Sister Julia-Child-of-God, the convent cook.

To solicit assistance with the cost of production, RRTC, a nonprofit community theatre organization, offered benefits to sponsors of the nuns’ costumes, accessories and required set and props. Royalties to Samual French, Inc. of NYC total more than $900 for a 3-day performance. The drawing for the nun dolls is an additional effort to raise funds toward production costs so that RRTC can bring this world famous musical production to the people of Fannin County.

Ticket information is available on the RRTC website, www.redrivertheatre.com, at the Bonham Chamber of Commerce, Bonham State Bank, and the Creative Arts Center in Bonham. For more information, call 903-664-2233 or 903-583-4415.

TxDOT Announces Opening Of Us 82

Paris, TX- The Paris district of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announces the opening of highway US 82 from Bells to Sherman on April 13, 2004. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on the west end of the project on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Local officials along with U.S. Congressman Ralph Hall, State Representative Larry Phillips and Senator Craig Estes have been invited to attend. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at the Grayson Bible Church located at the Southwest corner of FM 1417 and US 82, just west of the project. Traffic is scheduled to be rerouted onto the new section of US 82 sometime after the ceremony that same day.

Thanks From The Sam Rayburn Junior Class

The Sam Rayburn Junior class would like to thank the following sponsors for helping to make the 2004 Prom a huge success.

American Legion, Bill McCain Autos, Bonham Jewelry, Bonham Quick Lube, Brookshires, Christian Solutions Bookstore, Cooper Sorrells, Domino Pizza, Donna Trent/ Ivanhoe Post Office, Ivanhoe General Store, Kwik Check, McCraw Oil, Mayfield McCraw, John Esser/NEMC Home Health, Melanie Todd/NEMC Home Health, Pizza Hut, Rolando’s, Subway, Twister Saddle Shop, VFW, Walmart, Whitlock Pawn Shop, Wise Funeral Home, and Zula Felts

Region C Water Planning Group To Hold Public Meeting Monday, April 19 At Trinity River Authority

What: The Region C Water Planning Group (RCWPG) will hold a public meeting to discuss upcoming steps in the regional water planning process for Region C

Members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting and participate in a public comment session during the meeting.

When: Monday, April 19, 2004, 1:30 p.m.

Where: Trinity River Authority, Central Wastewater Treatment Plant, 6500 W. Singleton Blvd., Grand Prairie, TX 75212, (972) 263-2251

About RCWPG: The RCWPG is one of 16 regional water planning groups selected by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to help develop a comprehensive state water plan for Texas over the next 50 years, as mandated by Senate Bill 1 (SB 1). Each water planning group is responsible for preparing and adopting a regional water plan for its area. The RCWPG is made up of 19 members representing 11 different interest groups.

About Region C: Region C is made up of all or part of 16 counties in North Texas: Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Fannin, Freestone, Grayson, Henderson, Jack, Kaufman, Navarro, Parker, Rockwall, Tarrant and Wise.

Stephenson School Hunts For Easter Eggs

Thursday was a big day for the children at Stephenson School.

Children hunted eggs that had been hidden by parents and Bonham High School PALS and later they were treated to a performance of Little Red Riding Hood presented by the Sherman Community Players.

BEDCo Meeting Results

By Sarah Meek

The Bonham Economic Development Corporation met Tuesday, April 6, at 4:30. First items approved on the agenda were the minutes of the March 2nd meeting, and the financial report for February, 2004.

A status report on the cost analysis of the Heritage District was given.

Part 1- Rebuild of the Chinner St./ Sam Rayburn Dr. intersection. Estimated Cost- $78,775

Part 2- Sidewalks, sprinkler system, and street lights on three blks. of Sam Rayburn Dr. Estimated Cost- $133,285

Part 3- Sidewalks, sprinkler system, and street lights on five blks. of Sam Rayburn Dr. Estimated Cost-$196,650

Total Est. Cost of Parts 1,2 and 3- $408,710

Actual Cost of Parts 1,2 and 3- $810,757

Part 8.5- Sidewalks, sprinkler system, street lights, One block of street paving, eight crosswalks with corners. Estimated cost- $139,000. Actual cost- $1,148,894

Part 8.5- Rebuild of Courthouse parking lot (33 more cars) and sidewalks, curb and gutter, streetlights, elec. outlets, water taps, and landscaping. Estimated cost- $139,000. Actual cost- $293,500

Part 4- Four blks. of new sidewalks, street lights, curb and gutter, street paving, landscaping, new parking lot, (75 cars) one blk. of sidewalk, and two blks. of curb and gutter

Estimated cost- $135,384. Actual Cost- $580,625

(note) Pkg. lot acquisition, development, wall repair; four blks. street paving, two blks. of curb and gutter, and one blk. of sidewalk not in cost est.

Part 5- Rebuild of Star St., sidewalks, street lights, and street paving. Estimated cost- $107,000. Actual cost- 0

(note) Not done; street not extended to Powder Creek area.

Part 6- Exposition Center relocated to Fannin Co. Multi-Use Facility. Estimated Cost- $472,000. Actual Cost- $250,000. Land Acquisition/ Ector Rd.- $94,000. Total Actual Cost-$344,000.

Part 7- Develop Visitor Center and landscape Fort Inglish Park. Visitor Center moved to Downtown Bonham. Estimated cost- $379,293. Actual cost- $275,000.

Part 9- Powder Creek impoundment area Park. Estimated Cost- $754,000 Cost to date- $128,000

(note) Actual cost includes Cotton Mill acquisition and clearing of both.

1. Cotton Mill and most railroad property not included in original project cost estimate.

2. 500 blk of N. Main St. not in original project or cost estimate.

3. Main St. parking lot not in the original project.

4. Project plan estimates for property acquisition was $30,000. Actual expense has been $162,760 for 53.5 acres; $129,000 for nine downtown lots, and $150,000 for the Visitor Center bldg.

5. Net development cost on Phase 2 is $1,168,865.

6. BEDCO has a current non-committed balance in Bond Funds of $296,674 and a non-committed balance in Special Operating funds of $88,972 for a total of $385,646.

7. The only remaining projects, not yet funded are the second floor of the Visitor Center and the devolpment of the Park on Powder Creek. Clearly BEDCO has sufficient resources to complete the Heritage District Project with it’s current resources.

Tom Johnson

Executive Director Next item on the agenda was recomendation to award a contract of the reconstruction sidewalk on the Northwest corner of E. Fifth and North Center St. by Mary’s Boutique. This was approved 6-0.

Bids were taken for the construction of the Expo Center. Swan Roofing, with a bid of $180,550, will receive the job of building the piers / beams and roof. This was approved 4-2.

A Marketing Director’s position description and responsibilities was also approved at the Tuesday meeting. This persons duties are to plan, organize, direct and review the activities and operations of the Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce and perform all marketing activities for BEDCo. They have not chosen a person for the job.

A status report was then give on the S. Main parking lot wall, which is now finished, and the visitors center project.